JumpStart Summer Program Begins

A collage showing students, teachers, and staff on the first day of JumpStart on Wednesday.

By Tim Reaves
BCS Communications Department

With a new school year around the corner, Buncombe County Schools is preparing our buildings to be safe learning environments for students and staff.

BCS kicked off the first day of the Summer JumpStart program on Wednesday, and the excitement was palpable at West Buncombe Elementary School. Even though they spaced six feet apart, kids gave “air high fives” to friends and teachers, practiced math and reading skills, ran on the school track, and enjoyed nutritious meals from the school cafeteria. Five hundred students are participating in the program in person, while more are learning online.

“Teachers and students are more resilient than ever,” said National Board Certified WBES kindergarten teacher Shanna Buckner. “Despite having to adjust our methods, teachers continue to meet each student’s needs. Positive instruction and thoughtful interactions are occurring in JumpStart.”

JumpStart is an innovative, in-person summer learning program meant to help kids get ready for the new school year after the disruptions caused by last semester’s COVID-19 closures. Safety protocols are in place during the 10-day program, including physical distancing (with helpful markings on the floor), a nine-person limit in each classroom, individual (non-shared) classroom supplies, and a temperature check and face covering requirement for everyone entering the building.

“It is great to have students in the building again,” said WBES Principal Philip Chandler. “Schools look a lot different with all the new safety protocols in place, but we still have the same goal to educate and care for kids. JumpStart is a great way for students to improve their skills and prepare for the next school year.”

Buncombe County Schools is preparing to begin the 2020-21 school year under a Plan B hybrid learning model. Families may also choose our remote-only option. For more information, visit buncombeschools.org.

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